Palm Oil

Cameroon

"Pure palm oil is very moisturizing," says Lisa Yuan, director of the Botanica Spa at the Westcliff hotel in Johannesburg, South Africa. "But it's so rich, you may sometimes want a lighter-blended product." The question of which product is a tricky one, however: Palm oil cultivation is one of the world's worst causes of deforestation and habitat destruction, but several companies are making serious efforts to reverse the trend and source the crop sustainably. Though the Rainforest Alliance just certified its first palm plantation, the industry still has a long way to go, so in the meantime, look for brands that make specific sustainability statements:

Chamomile

Germany

Beyond its role in brightening blond hair, chamomile "is one of the gentlest, most calming ingredients nature has provided," says Yuan. The extract has anti-inflammatory properties, making it an ideal remedy for red, irritated, or simply dehydrated skin.

Kukui Nut Oil

Hawaii

Hawaii's official state tree, the kukui, is also the island group's unofficial beauty ambassador. The nut yields an oil that "supplies skin and hair with rich nourishment," says Yuan. But rich isn't synonymous with greasy: The oil is light, fast-absorbing, and is found in many popular beauty treatments.

Honey

Russia

An ancient beauty remedy the world over, honey is revered in Russia as well. Slathering honey straight onto your face -- and allowing 5 or 10 minutes absorption time -- should help hydrate and purify the skin, says Yuan. No time to treat yourself to a mask? Try one of these honey-rich products instead:

(15) Origins Starting Over Eye Cream with Mimosa employs a battery of botanicals (in addition to the barley and the headlining mimosa) to combat crepey lids and other local wrinkling. (origins.com)

Mineral Salts

Belgium

"In mineral-rich waters, you'll find the same minerals as in our body, like magnesium, calcium, and sodium," says Yuan. "By drinking and soaking in them, you're raising the mineral content of your body, which boosts your health and glow." But if you don't happen to have hot springs around the corner, add any of these to your tub:

(16) EuroSpa Sea Salt is an all natural, mineral-rich blend that can be poured directly into your bath or mixed into a scrub. (seasalt.com)